Handicrafts set for major boost under new proposal

TDT | Manama

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

Traditional handicrafts and Bahrain’s wider heritage will go before MPs on Tuesday as Parliament debates a proposal to support and develop craft industries and protect the kingdom’s national identity.

The proposal, submitted by MPs Mohammed Janahi, Dr Hesham Al Ashiri, Lulwa Al Rumaihi, Mohammed Al Olaiwi and Jalila Alawi, calls for government backing to preserve traditional crafts, promote their products, attract investment and ensure that long-standing skills are passed on rather than lost. Parliament’s Services Committee has urged approval, stressing the need to use modern tools to enhance traditional crafts while keeping their original character intact.

Janahi said handicrafts form an economic sector capable of creating jobs for Bahrainis, opening doors to micro and small enterprises and expanding income sources. He added that support for crafts strengthens pride in heritage, particularly among young people.

The Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA) told MPs it already treats traditional crafts and older trades as central to safeguarding national authenticity. Its Handicrafts Directorate and Museums and Antiquities Directorate work together to preserve crafts in their original settings. A key project is the National Register of Craftsmen, which documents craftspeople, their specialisations, experience and production capacity. In 2023, BACA recorded 243 craftspeople, though ongoing fieldwork is likely to reveal higher numbers.

BACA also promotes crafts through the ‘Made in Bahrain’ brand and shops, which o f f e r o v e r 3 8 0 products from the Jasra Handicrafts Centre and around 800 items from 49 external suppliers. Total sales in 2023 reached BD40,671. The Authority is developing an online platform to expand market reach.

Craft houses in Bani Jamra and Al Qala support weaving and basket-making, while extensive training programmes at Jasra and other centres help preserve skills. BACA also facilitates local and international participation at exhibitions and works with pottery workshops in A’ali to safeguard the craft’s future. BACA said the parliamentary proposal aligns with its existing efforts and pledged to continue expanding support within available resources.